Hands-on training with our industry-leading team of globally recognized trainers. From polishing to sanding, the RUPES BigFoot Detailing Academy has the equipment and the staff to host a training for any skill level from beginners to advanced techniques. Classes are conducted regularly and are a combination of both private and public events. See the schedule below for upcoming training opportunities or to request a tour please contact us.

Hands-on training with our industry-leading team of globally recognized trainers. From polishing to sanding, the RUPES BigFoot Detailing Academy has the equipment and the staff to host a training for any skill level from beginners to advanced techniques. Classes are conducted regularly and are a combination of both private and public events. For more information on upcoming training opportunities or to request a tour please contact us.

Training Schedule About Our Instructors

Explore the Academy

Walkthrough the Academy through a 360 virtual tour or click through the photo slideshow to learn about our training facilities.

The BigFoot Academy is located inside the RUPES USA Headquarters in picturesque Louisville, Colorado – just 30 minutes from Denver International Airport and less than 10 miles from the base of the Rocky Mountains.
The BigFoot Academy includes a professional classroom with multiple high definition displays, comfortable seating, and smart touchpanels for a fully immersive and hi-tech educational experience.
Hands-on training is at the core of what we do. The BigFoot Academy has a massive practical application space where we can coach students on any aspect of polishing or sanding. Whether you’re a beginner attending one of our introductory level classes or a seasoned professional looking to expand on your existing skills every class includes substantial hands-on training time.
It isn’t just a demonstration, its training. Our team has decades of industry experience and they’re all enthusiastic about sharing that with our students. Utilizing a combination of classroom theory reinforced by one-on-one coaching in each session guarantees the highest possibility for our students to succeed.
We take training seriously. When you attend a training at the BigFoot Academy don’t expect a sales pitch on products, we’re here to make sure you leave with new skills and a better understanding of the techniques required to be successful.
RUPES manufactures the highest quality, most complete line of professional polishing solutions on the market today and while at the BigFoot Academy you have access to our entire range of polishing systems.
We do more than just detail training. RUPES has been a leader in the bodyshop industry for over 70 years manufacturing premium sanders and dust extraction systems. Whether you specialize in collision repair, repainting, or customization we have training and solutions that can make your shop safer, healthier, and more efficient.
RUPES is a Founding Member and strong supporter of the International Detailing Association and their mission. The BigFoot Academy regularly hosts certification classes for technicians looking to get their IDA accreditations.
Students attending classes from out-of-town have access to the RUPES corporate rate at our host hotel, the Omni Interlocken Resort. This luxurious resort and spa property is located just a few minutes from RUPES USA headquarters and with the RUPES discounts provides an economical and convenient solution for visitors to the BigFoot Academy.
When your training is done don’t forget to take in some of the incredible sights the state of Colorado has to offer. Head west from RUPES into nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, south into Denver, visit iconic downtown Boulder or visit one of the states world-renowned craft breweries.

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Upcoming Training Schedule

Due to the COVID pandemic, our training schedule has seen significant changes including reduced class sizes and new requirements for anyone attending a class. As we modify our training programs there will be limited class options available. We hope to announce more sessions in the coming months, but make sure you’re subscribed to the BigFoot Academy e-mail list to receive notifications when we announce new classes.

GET NOTIFIED - EMAIL UPDATES FROM THE BIGFOOT ACADEMY ASK A QUESTION ABOUT THE FACILITY OR OUR TRAINING

september

17sep(sep 17)9:00 am18(sep 18)5:00 pmSOLD OUT! Advanced 2-Day Sanding & Polishing Training | BigFoot AcademyHosted by RUPES USA in the BigFoot Academy

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Event Details

This class is subject to certain requirements due to COVID19

Class size reduced/limited to 6 students
Students must agree to a daily temperature scan before being allowed into the facility
Students and instructors will be required to wear a mask while within the facility
Students and instructors will be required to maintain a minimum of 6ft distance whenever possible
Each student will be assigned a unique set of supplies for the duration of the class that is exclusively for their use
Students will be required to clean/sanitize their tools, supplies, and work surfaces at the end of each day. Sanitization products will be provided

Take your paint perfecting skills to the next level! The BigFoot Academy 2-Day Advanced Sanding & Polishing Training Course is hosted by RUPES USA in the BigFoot Detailing Academy located near beautiful Denver, Colorado. This intensive course will be conducted by our world-class training team and will feature a mix of both classroom instruction and hands-on training. This class will focus on proper sanding technique to remove texture and severe paint defects, as well as refining paint correction techniques for improved efficiency and results. In addition to the training, the students will also be given a behind-the-scenes tour of the RUPES USA facility and have a chance to see the manufacturing of BigFoot polishers up close.

THIS CLASS IS RECOMMENDED FOR PROFESSIONALS ONLY. Students must have a working knowledge of paint correction and be proficient in the use of random orbital polishers at the very minimum. Students should be comfortable with the basics of sanding techniques. There will be no novice-level instruction included.

A registration fee of $900 per student is required in advance, no payments will be accepted at the door. Lunch will be provided for each day of the class and each student will receive a certificate of completion, a collection of limited edition RUPES merchandise, product samples, and other BigFoot Academy exclusives.

This class will sell out! Don’t miss your opportunity to learn at the premier training facility in the US; The RUPES BigFoot Detailing Academy.

Lead instructor: Jason Rose | Global Director of Training, RUPES

Each class at the RUPES BigFoot Academy is custom-tailored to the student’s goals. We open the class with a discussion of current skills, pain points, and goals. Below is the basic class outline, but these subjects can be changed, rearranged, expanded, or limited based on class input and feedback. All topics are a combination of both classroom theory and hands-on time. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that each student leaves the class having gained valuable technical skills that they can put to use in their business.

Diagnosing defects and defining paint characteristics
The “go vs. no-go” paint assessment process
Machine sanding including texture leveling and texture matching
Sanding for efficiency in the paint correction process
Comparison of tool movements, selecting tools based on variables
Technique adjustments for situational performance gains with all tool movements
Polishing pad selection and maximizing pads for results
Edgework tools and using compact tools with maximum efficiency
Polishing science and the dynamics of how paint responds to abrasion
Express paint correction, 1-step procedures, maximizing profit by delivering customer-pleasing results

*Note – classes at the BigFoot Detailing Academy are technically focused and do not include business management, marketing, or operational coaching. 100% of the training is spent on the technical applications of sanding and polishing procedures.

Time

17 (Thursday) 9:00 am - 18 (Friday) 5:00 pm MST

Location

The BigFoot Academy at RUPES USA

531 South Taylor Ave

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Jason Rose is widely recognized as one of the preeminent authorities on automotive surface care. With decades of experience as a trainer and technician, he develops and manages the content for our training center and deploys training programs for RUPES around the world. With help from our highly skilled team of trainers around the world Jason crafts training content for each class that includes both classroom learning and practical/hands-on sessions.

With 20 years in the detailing industry, Dylan von Kleist heads up marketing for RUPES USA and assists with trainings at our Colorado facility. His experience as a trainer, technician, and product development manager make him a valuable addition to training sessions. Dylan manages tours and training experiences at the Academy.

Troy has worked his way up the ranks at RUPES USA from the manufacturing line, to Repair Department Manager, and eventually moving into his current role as Area Sales Manager for the Mountain States region. In addition to managing a sales territory, Troy assists with BigFoot Academy training events. His comprehensive understanding of the mechanical functions of RUPES tools provides unique insight into product performance and another layer of technical knowledge that our students can tap into when they attend a class.

Planning Your Training Trip

Thinking about coming out to Colorado for training, but not sure what you’ll need to do? Below you’ll find some helpful tips about getting to Colorado, where to stay, and what you’ll need. Also, feel free to contact us directly if you have any questions about our training programs, travel to the area, etc.

Flight
Air travel should be booked into Denver International Airport (DIA) for the most convenient arrival. The airport is about 30-45 minutes from the RUPES USA facility.
Hotel
There are several hotel properties within 5-10 miles from the RUPES facility. When booking make sure you are near zip code 80027. We offer a RUPES corporate discount through our hotel partners at the Omni Interlocken Resort if you are interested in staying at our preferred hotel. Check rates and availability at the Omni Resort
Meals
For any full-day or multi-day classes food and refreshments will be provided. If you have a specific food allergy please let us know in advance so we can make arrangements for you. Dinners after class are on your own, but we encourage students to plan meals together as a networking opportunity.
Transportation
It is recommended you rent a car for transport from the airport to the hotel, and then from the hotel to the facility. If you prefer UBER and LYFT both provide services in the area.
Training Cost
The total price of the class is described in the registration link and varies by class type/duration. Registration fees cover the class only. Airfare, hotel, and other transportation are not included.
Tools & Supplies
The BigFoot Academy is fully stocked with all the tools and supplies you’ll need to complete the training. If you would like to bring your tool with you for a tune-up or to train with feel free, but it is not required.

Explore the Academy